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. 2026 Jun 11;25(6):e70990. doi: 10.1111/jocd.70990

Adverse Drug Reaction Study of Botulinum Toxin‐A in the Real World

Jiaxu Gu 1,2, Yue Sun 3, Kexin Chen 1,2, Jieyi Wang 1,2,4, Bingcheng Lu 1,2, Hongqiang Xie 5, Xiaoming Liu 1,2, Cong Huang 1,2, Xingling Jian 1,2,, Bo Yu 1,2,
PMCID: PMC13260872

ABSTRACT

Background

Despite the increasing use of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT‐A) in aesthetic and therapeutic applications, its real‐world adverse drug reaction (ADR) profile remains incompletely characterized. Current evidence relies largely on small‐scale clinical observations rather than large, systematic analyses.

Objective

To evaluate ADRs associated with BoNT‐A using pharmacovigilance data from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database (2004–2025).

Methods

We analyzed 155 449 BoNT‐A‐related ADR reports from the FAERS database after deduplication and data cleaning. Disproportionality analyses were conducted using four established algorithms: reporting odds ratio (ROR), proportional reporting ratio (PRR), Bayesian confidence propagation neural network (BCPNN), and multi‐item gamma Poisson shrinker (MGPS). We evaluated time‐to‐onset and system organ class (SOC) distributions and identified high‐risk ADR signals.

Results

A biphasic pattern of ADR onset was observed, with an initial peak within 30 days after injection and a second, smaller peak beyond the 360‐day mark. The most frequently reported SOCs were general disorders and administration‐site conditions (33.22%); injury, poisoning, and procedural complications (16.81%); and nervous system disorders (11.16%). Eyebrow ptosis, botulism, blepharoptosis, facial paresis, and reuse of single‐use products were identified as strong safety signals. Females accounted for 87.8% of reported cases, and the 18–64.9 years age group was the most affected.

Conclusion

BoNT‐A is associated with a broad ADR profile spanning multiple organ systems, with identifiable temporal patterns. These findings highlight the importance of injection technique, dose control, and patient monitoring, particularly during both early and late post‐treatment phases. Enhanced pharmacovigilance and targeted risk management strategies are needed to improve patient safety in clinical practice.

Keywords: adverse event, botulinum toxin, drug reaction, FDA

1. Introduction

Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum that inhibits the release of acetylcholine at neuromuscular junctions and thus causes muscle relaxation and reduces secretions from cholinergically innervated glands, particularly sweat and salivary glands [1]. Over recent years, the clinical applications of botulinum toxin have increased substantially, now encompassing aesthetic procedures such as rhytid reduction and facial contouring as well as therapeutic interventions for conditions such as blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm, cervical dystonia, and hyperhidrosis [2, 3]. This increased use, however, has been accompanied by a growing number of adverse drug reaction (ADR) reports. These adverse reactions span a broad spectrum, ranging from transient local effects, such as injection‐site pain and edema, to severe systemic events such as dyspnea and anaphylaxis, with rare fatal outcomes [4].

Monitoring ADRs is essential for medication safety [5]. Systematic analysis of pharmacovigilance data can reveal ADR patterns and also help identify reactions that pose the highest risk. Together, such insights can inform clinical decision‐making. Among botulinum toxin serotypes, type A (BoNT‐A) is the most widely used in both aesthetic and therapeutic settings and accounts for the majority of reported ADRs [6]. However, current data on ADRs resulting from botulinum toxin type A (BoNT‐A) have largely been derived from studies focusing either on small case series or on specific reaction types [7]. Large‐scale investigations that systematically analyze real‐world data, especially with regard to temporal patterns and system organ class (SOC) distributions, remain absent. Consequently, the full clinical risk profile of BoNT‐A remains poorly understood.

The US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) is a publicly accessible database of post‐marketing adverse event and medication error reports that is central to drug safety surveillance [8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15]. Based on the above research, this study uses real‐world data from the FAERS to systematically evaluate the clinical safety profile of BoNT‐A. We determine time‐to‐onset, cumulative incidence at the preferred term (PT) level, and SOC distributions to define periods of elevated risk and identify organ systems requiring closer clinical monitoring and targeted attention. Our study provides clinically relevant evidence to help clinicians personalize treatment plans and optimize monitoring protocols, and to support regulatory agencies in risk assessment and mitigation.

2. Methods

2.1. Data Source

This study used adverse event (AE) reports submitted to the FAERS over 86 quarters, from the first quarter of 2004 through the second quarter of 2025. The following datasets were extracted: demographic and administrative information (DEMO), drug information (DRUG), patient outcomes (OUTC), adverse reactions (REAC), report sources (RPSR), and therapy duration (THER).

2.2. Data Processing

Raw data were systematically cleaned and integrated. Duplicate reports were identified and removed according to the FDA‐recommended protocol: records were sorted by PRIMARYID, CASEID, and FDA_DT (date of receipt). For records with the same CASEID, the one with the most recent FDA_DT was retained. When both CASEID and FDA_DT were identical, the record with the highest PRIMARYID was selected. To ensure all relevant cases are captured, we retrieved the standardized names for all BoNT‐A formulations (including but not limited to incobotulinumtoxinA and prabotulinumtoxinA) from the MeSH database of the National Library of Medicine. Reports identifying any BoNT‐A product as the “primary suspect” were selected for analysis. Finally, all reported PTs were standardized and mapped to their corresponding SOCs using the latest version of the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA).

2.3. Signal Mining

Potential safety signals were identified using four disproportionality analysis algorithms—reporting odds ratio (ROR), proportional reporting ratio (PRR), Bayesian confidence propagation neural network (BCPNN), and multi‐item gamma Poisson shrinker (MGPS)—following previously described procedures and thresholds [16]. The higher the values obtained through these four analyses, the stronger the statistical association between BoNT‐A and an AE.

All statistical analyses were performed using the R software (version 4.3.0). A two‐tailed p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

3. Results

3.1. Overview of the SOC Distribution of AEs

In total, 155 449 BoNT‐A‐related AE reports, encompassing 27 distinct SOCs, were analyzed (Figure 1). The three most frequently reported SOCs were general disorders and administration‐site conditions (n = 51 639; 33.22%); injury, poisoning, and procedural complications (n = 26 128; 16.81%); and nervous system disorders (n = 17 342; 11.16%). Eye disorders (n = 12 160; 7.82%) and musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders (n = 8402; 5.40%) were the other notable SOCs.

FIGURE 1.

FIGURE 1

Distribution of ADRs associated with BoNT‐A by SOC.

Gastrointestinal disorders (n = 7627; 4.91%); skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders (n = 7171; 4.61%); respiratory, thoracic, and mediastinal disorders (n = 5233; 3.37%); and psychiatric disorders (n = 3444; 2.22%) were other SOCs of note. Endocrine disorders and congenital, familial, and genetic disorders were rarely reported (0.06% each).

3.2. Clinical Baseline Features

After deduplication and data cleaning, 60 622 unique cases were retained for analysis. Baseline demographic and reporting characteristics are presented in Table 1.

TABLE 1.

Baseline characteristics of adverse event reports associated with botulinum toxin‐A (BoNT‐A) treatments.

Category Sub‐item Quantity (n) Proportion (%)
Sex Female 53 208 87.8
Male 7414 12.2
Weight < 50 kg 932 1.5
> 100 kg 331 0.5
50–100 kg 4948 8.2
Missing data 54 411 89.8
Age < 18 years old 1244 2.1
> 85 years old 214 0.4
18–64.9 years old 23 001 37.9
65–85 years old 3529 5.8
Missing data 32 634 53.8
Occupation Consumer 19 707 32.5
Health professional 8401 13.9
Other Laborer 31 0.1
Physician 18 270 30.1
Pharmacist 1112 1.8
Nurse 6 0
Other occupation 11 137 18.4
Missing data 1958 3.2
Outcome Congenital anomaly 8 0
Death 1240 2
Disability 597 1
Hospitalization 2396 4
Life‐threatening 285 0.5
Recovery 39 0.1
Other outcome 3673 6.1
Missing data 52 384 86.4
Reporter country United States 51 421 0.85
Other countries 9201 0.15
Serious cases or not Not serious 52 384 86.4
Serious 8238 13.6
Fatal or not Not fatal 59 382 98
Fatal 1240 2
Reporter type Consumer 19 707 32.5
Health professional 8401 13.9
Pharmacist 1112 1.8
Physician 18 270 30.1
Missing 13 132 21.7
Data acquisition year 2004 110 0.2
2005 106 0.2
2006 120 0.2
2007 170 0.3
2008 482 0.8
2009 372 0.6
2010 4476 7.4
2011 1493 2.5
2012 2935 4.8
2013 2938 4.8
2014 2889 4.8
2015 3314 5.5
2016 4428 7.3
2017 4394 7.2
2018 4839 8
2019 5110 8.4
2020 4156 6.9
2021 4364 7.2
2022 4147 6.8
2023 5868 9.7
2024 3911 6.5

The majority of AEs were in female patients (87.80%), a proportion roughly seven times greater than that of males (12.20%). The highest proportion of events (37.90%) was reported in the 18–64.9 years age group. Healthcare professionals submitted 45.80% of all reports, with physicians contributing 30.10%, other medical staff 13.90%, and pharmacists 1.80%. Reports submitted by patients themselves accounted for a substantial 32.50%.

Most AEs were of low severity, with 86.40% of cases classified as nonserious by the reporter and 98.00% as nonfatal. The most commonly recorded outcomes were other outcomes (6.10%), hospitalization (4.00%), and death (2.00%). Geographically, most reports (84.82%) originated from the United States of America. The annual reporting volume rose steadily over the study period until 2010, when a marked increase was observed. A modest fluctuation was observed between 2020 and 2022, followed by a new peak in 2023.

3.3. Timing of AEs

Time‐to‐onset analysis revealed a biphasic distribution of event onset times (Figure 2). The first peak corresponded to AEs with onset within 30 days of injection (n = 4857; 29.60%). A second, smaller peak (n = 501; 3.0%) corresponded to AEs with onset occurring 360 days after injection. Event onset was least frequent between 151 and 180 days (n = 70; 0.42%).

FIGURE 2.

FIGURE 2

Bidirectional bar chart of BoNT‐A‐associated ADR reports by time‐to‐onset period.

Cumulative incidence analysis identified 7347 distinct PTs (Figure 3). Dysphagia persisted for up to 7702 days, the longest documented duration. Other prolonged events included facial paralysis (6360 days), neck pain (5928 days), and drug ineffectiveness (5917 days). The majority of symptoms resolved within 4000 days.

FIGURE 3.

FIGURE 3

Cumulative incidence of common ADRs of BoNT‐A.

3.4. AEs With Strong Disproportionality Signals

The four disproportionality algorithms (PRR, EBGM, BCPNN, and ROR) detected 3951 safety signals at the PT level (Figure 4). Of these, 324 PTs satisfied the threshold criteria for all four algorithms, 311 met the criteria for three algorithms, and 264 for two. These findings indicate a broad range of ADRs with strong disproportionality signals.

FIGURE 4.

FIGURE 4

Venn diagram showing the overlap of ADR signals identified by the four pharmacovigilance algorithms.

Table 2 summarizes AEs with strong disproportionality signals across 14 SOCs and 156 corresponding PTs, identified using predefined signal detection criteria (n > 3, ROR > 3, and IC0.25 > 0). By frequency of reports, drug ineffectiveness (n = 22 262) and off‐label use (n = 11 441) were the most commonly reported PTs.

TABLE 2.

High‐disproportionality adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with BoNT‐A by system organ class (SOC).

System organ class (SOC) Preferred terms (PT) Case reports ROR (95% CI) PRR (95% CI) χ 2 IC (IC025) EBGM (EBGM05)
General disorders and administration site conditions Drug ineffective 22 262 8.22 (8.11–8.34) 7.19 (118 401.14) 118 401.14 2.82 (2.8) 7.05 (6.95)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Off label use 11 441 6.55 (6.43–6.68) 6.14 (48 929.54) 48 929.54 2.6 (2.57) 6.05 (5.93)
General disorders and administration site conditions Therapeutic response decreased 4340 34.1 (33.04–35.2) 33.17 (122 808.02) 122 808.02 4.91 (4.86) 30.15 (29.21)
Nervous system disorders Headache 3501 2.2 (2.13–2.28) 2.17 (2227.19) 2227.19 1.11 (1.06) 2.17 (2.09)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Product preparation error 3179 99.12 (95.23–103.17) 97.11 (231 995.87) 231 995.87 6.22 (6.13) 74.72 (71.79)
Eye disorders Eyelid ptosis 3140 211.75 (202.39–221.54) 207.49 (391 328.68) 391 328.68 6.98 (6.86) 126.21 (120.63)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site pain 3021 4.14 (3.99–4.29) 4.08 (6969.05) 6969.05 2.01 (1.96) 4.04 (3.9)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Wrong technique in product usage process 2705 4.67 (4.49–4.85) 4.61 (7558.07) 7558.07 2.19 (2.13) 4.56 (4.38)
Gastrointestinal disorders Dysphagia 1911 7.85 (7.5–8.22) 7.77 (11 013.97) 11 013.97 2.93 (2.85) 7.6 (7.27)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Muscular weakness 1876 6.45 (6.16–6.76) 6.39 (8376.5) 8376.5 2.65 (2.58) 6.28 (6)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Multiple use of single‐use product 1450 258.89 (241.56–277.46) 256.48 (204 739.75) 204 739.75 7.16 (6.93) 142.74 (133.19)
Eye disorders Vision blurred 1427 4.13 (3.92–4.35) 4.1 (3312.89) 3312.89 2.02 (1.94) 4.06 (3.86)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site swelling 1161 6.33 (5.97–6.71) 6.29 (5073.23) 5073.23 2.63 (2.54) 6.19 (5.84)
Nervous system disorders Migraine 1143 4.93 (4.65–5.23) 4.91 (3505.39) 3505.39 2.28 (2.19) 4.85 (4.57)
General disorders and administration site conditions Swelling face 1121 6.78 (6.39–7.2) 6.74 (5372.7) 5372.7 2.73 (2.63) 6.62 (6.24)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Neck pain 1061 7.41 (6.97–7.88) 7.37 (5710.74) 5710.74 2.85 (2.75) 7.22 (6.79)
Nervous system disorders Hypoaesthesia 966 2.44 (2.29–2.6) 2.43 (808.52) 808.52 1.27 (1.18) 2.42 (2.27)
Nervous system disorders Facial paresis 911 133.8 (123.83–144.57) 133.02 (84 293.95) 84 293.95 6.56 (6.31) 94.22 (87.2)
General disorders and administration site conditions Influenza like illness 850 3.85 (3.6–4.12) 3.84 (1765.29) 1765.29 1.93 (1.82) 3.8 (3.56)
General disorders and administration site conditions Therapeutic response shortened 733 13.59 (12.62–14.63) 13.53 (8160.72) 8160.72 3.7 (3.57) 13.02 (12.09)
General disorders and administration site conditions Drug ineffective for unapproved indication 724 5.9 (5.48–6.35) 5.87 (2877.52) 2877.52 2.53 (2.41) 5.79 (5.38)
Eye disorders Eye swelling 713 7.67 (7.12–8.27) 7.64 (4022.33) 4022.33 2.9 (2.78) 7.49 (6.95)
Eye disorders Diplopia 617 9.66 (8.91–10.46) 9.62 (4629.54) 4629.54 3.23 (3.09) 9.37 (8.65)
Nervous system disorders Facial paralysis 538 15.19 (13.93–16.57) 15.14 (6786.52) 6786.52 3.86 (3.7) 14.5 (13.3)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Product storage error 504 2.94 (2.69–3.21) 2.94 (637.99) 637.99 1.54 (1.41) 2.92 (2.67)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders Brow ptosis 502 10 060.91 (6115.86–16 550.72) 10 028.42 (155 469.17) 155 469.17 8.28 (7.4) 310.73 (188.89)
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Dysphonia 493 3.26 (2.98–3.56) 3.25 (761.24) 761.24 1.69 (1.55) 3.23 (2.95)
Eye disorders Dry eye 488 4.41 (4.03–4.82) 4.4 (1266.06) 1266.06 2.12 (1.98) 4.35 (3.98)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Product preparation issue 487 86.99 (78.69–96.16) 86.72 (32 459.1) 32 459.1 6.1 (5.77) 68.43 (61.9)
Nervous system disorders Burning sensation 469 2.57 (2.35–2.82) 2.57 (445.57) 445.57 1.35 (1.21) 2.55 (2.33)
Eye disorders Eyelid oedema 466 14.95 (13.62–16.41) 14.91 (5778.25) 5778.25 3.84 (3.66) 14.29 (13.02)
Nervous system disorders Speech disorder 460 3.29 (3–3.61) 3.29 (725.38) 725.38 1.71 (1.56) 3.26 (2.98)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Poor quality product administered 439 12.3 (11.18–13.54) 12.27 (4378.16) 4378.16 3.57 (3.39) 11.86 (10.78)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site rash 410 5.59 (5.07–6.16) 5.58 (1514.68) 1514.68 2.46 (2.3) 5.5 (4.99)
Eye disorders Eye pain 375 2.84 (2.56–3.14) 2.83 (440.74) 440.74 1.49 (1.34) 2.82 (2.54)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site mass 362 3.89 (3.51–4.31) 3.88 (765.78) 765.78 1.94 (1.78) 3.85 (3.47)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Incorrect route of product administration 343 2.54 (2.29–2.83) 2.54 (318.01) 318.01 1.34 (1.18) 2.53 (2.27)
Renal and urinary disorders Urinary retention 310 3.69 (3.3–4.12) 3.68 (598.84) 598.84 1.87 (1.69) 3.65 (3.26)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders Skin tightness 306 26.59 (23.66–29.88) 26.54 (6945.24) 6945.24 4.62 (4.34) 24.58 (21.88)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders Skin wrinkling 302 50.16 (44.43–56.64) 50.07 (12 556.05) 12 556.05 5.44 (5.07) 43.42 (38.46)
Infections and infestations Botulism 296 1215.27 (946.92–1559.67) 1212.96 (74 756.23) 74 756.23 7.99 (6.87) 253.76 (197.73)
General disorders and administration site conditions Facial pain 293 13.21 (11.75–14.84) 13.18 (3168.64) 3168.64 3.67 (3.44) 12.7 (11.3)
Nervous system disorders Head discomfort 292 6.83 (6.08–7.67) 6.82 (1420.09) 1420.09 2.74 (2.55) 6.7 (5.96)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Muscle twitching 282 4.7 (4.17–5.28) 4.69 (806.91) 806.91 2.21 (2.02) 4.64 (4.12)
Ear and labyrinth disorders Tinnitus 278 2.38 (2.11–2.68) 2.38 (220.21) 220.21 1.24 (1.06) 2.37 (2.1)
Nervous system disorders Dysarthria 274 2.77 (2.46–3.12) 2.76 (305.87) 305.87 1.46 (1.27) 2.75 (2.44)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Muscle tightness 266 6.3 (5.58–7.12) 6.29 (1161.61) 1161.61 2.63 (2.42) 6.19 (5.48)
Eye disorders Lacrimation increased 259 3.58 (3.17–4.05) 3.58 (475.81) 475.81 1.83 (1.63) 3.55 (3.14)
Pregnancy, puerperium and perinatal conditions Pregnancy 258 4.91 (4.34–5.56) 4.91 (790.48) 790.48 2.28 (2.07) 4.85 (4.29)
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Throat tightness 237 3.43 (3.02–3.9) 3.43 (403.8) 403.8 1.77 (1.56) 3.4 (2.99)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Facial asymmetry 235 156.72 (134.07–183.2) 156.49 (24 373.41) 24 373.41 6.72 (5.97) 105.38 (90.15)
Psychiatric disorders Panic attack 229 2.4 (2.11–2.73) 2.4 (185.31) 185.31 1.26 (1.06) 2.39 (2.1)
Eye disorders Photophobia 218 4.79 (4.19–5.48) 4.79 (643.66) 643.66 2.24 (2.02) 4.73 (4.14)
Eye disorders Eye disorder 209 2.53 (2.21–2.9) 2.53 (191.53) 191.53 1.33 (1.12) 2.52 (2.2)
Gastrointestinal disorders Lip swelling 204 2.39 (2.08–2.74) 2.38 (162.88) 162.88 1.25 (1.04) 2.37 (2.07)
Eye disorders Periorbital swelling 201 18.64 (16.17–21.49) 18.62 (3166.54) 3166.54 4.14 (3.82) 17.65 (15.31)
Gastrointestinal disorders Hypoaesthesia oral 197 5.06 (4.4–5.83) 5.06 (631.7) 631.7 2.32 (2.08) 5 (4.34)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site urticaria 196 3.28 (2.85–3.78) 3.28 (307.27) 307.27 1.7 (1.48) 3.25 (2.83)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Product administered at inappropriate site 195 3.01 (2.61–3.46) 3 (258.53) 258.53 1.58 (1.36) 2.99 (2.59)
Nervous system disorders Paralysis 188 4.92 (4.26–5.68) 4.91 (576.97) 576.97 2.28 (2.04) 4.85 (4.2)
Eye disorders Swelling of eyelid 172 13.69 (11.75–15.95) 13.68 (1938.05) 1938.05 3.72 (3.4) 13.16 (11.29)
Eye disorders Asthenopia 163 12.55 (10.73–14.67) 12.53 (1664.76) 1664.76 3.6 (3.27) 12.1 (10.34)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Prescribed overdose 160 3.45 (2.95–4.04) 3.45 (275.54) 275.54 1.78 (1.53) 3.42 (2.93)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Muscle atrophy 146 4.74 (4.02–5.58) 4.73 (423.92) 423.92 2.23 (1.95) 4.68 (3.97)
Eye disorders Periorbital oedema 142 10.91 (9.23–12.89) 10.9 (1234.48) 1234.48 3.4 (3.06) 10.57 (8.94)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site nodule 142 5.01 (4.24–5.91) 5.01 (448.4) 448.4 2.31 (2.02) 4.95 (4.19)
Nervous system disorders Neuromuscular toxicity 140 533.2 (406.81–698.86) 532.72 (27 862.92) 27 862.92 7.65 (6.06) 200.39 (152.89)
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Choking 132 2.73 (2.3–3.24) 2.73 (143.54) 143.54 1.44 (1.17) 2.72 (2.29)
Eye disorders Blepharospasm 129 9.87 (8.28–11.76) 9.86 (996.31) 996.31 3.26 (2.91) 9.59 (8.05)
Nervous system disorders Sensory disturbance 128 2.98 (2.5–3.55) 2.98 (166.57) 166.57 1.57 (1.29) 2.96 (2.49)
General disorders and administration site conditions Drug effect less than expected 126 6.87 (5.76–8.2) 6.86 (618.07) 618.07 2.75 (2.43) 6.74 (5.65)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site discomfort 125 5.22 (4.38–6.23) 5.22 (419.74) 419.74 2.37 (2.06) 5.15 (4.32)
Eye disorders Ocular discomfort 122 5.18 (4.33–6.2) 5.18 (404.93) 404.93 2.35 (2.04) 5.11 (4.27)
General disorders and administration site conditions Mass 119 3.27 (2.73–3.92) 3.27 (185.93) 185.93 1.7 (1.41) 3.25 (2.71)
Ear and labyrinth disorders Ear discomfort 118 4.53 (3.78–5.44) 4.53 (320.34) 320.34 2.16 (1.86) 4.48 (3.74)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Mastication disorder 115 14.98 (12.43–18.07) 14.97 (1432.5) 1432.5 3.84 (3.41) 14.35 (11.9)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Nerve injury 105 3.55 (2.93–4.3) 3.55 (190) 190 1.82 (1.5) 3.52 (2.9)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site oedema 92 22.53 (18.23–27.83) 22.52 (1767.14) 1767.14 4.4 (3.81) 21.1 (17.08)
Eye disorders Lagophthalmos 91 116.41 (91.57–147.99) 116.35 (7629.26) 7629.26 6.42 (5.14) 85.56 (67.31)
General disorders and administration site conditions Nodule 91 2.64 (2.14–3.24) 2.63 (91.56) 91.56 1.39 (1.06) 2.62 (2.13)
Eye disorders Eye discharge 90 3.64 (2.96–4.48) 3.64 (170.15) 170.15 1.85 (1.51) 3.61 (2.93)
Nervous system disorders Tension headache 90 8.44 (6.84–10.4) 8.43 (574.36) 574.36 3.04 (2.63) 8.24 (6.68)
General disorders and administration site conditions Tenderness 88 3.17 (2.57–3.91) 3.17 (129.21) 129.21 1.65 (1.31) 3.15 (2.55)
Eye disorders Eyelid disorder 85 14.73 (11.85–18.3) 14.72 (1038.97) 1038.97 3.82 (3.3) 14.11 (11.36)
Social circumstances Impaired driving ability 85 2.82 (2.28–3.5) 2.82 (99.25) 99.25 1.49 (1.15) 2.81 (2.27)
Nervous system disorders Drooling 83 5.07 (4.08–6.3) 5.07 (266.65) 266.65 2.32 (1.94) 5 (4.03)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site inflammation 80 6.63 (5.31–8.27) 6.62 (374.31) 374.31 2.7 (2.28) 6.51 (5.22)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Muscle disorder 78 3.58 (2.87–4.48) 3.58 (143.59) 143.59 1.83 (1.46) 3.55 (2.84)
Eye disorders Ophthalmoplegia 77 15.41 (12.26–19.37) 15.4 (989.28) 989.28 3.88 (3.31) 14.74 (11.73)
Nervous system disorders Hypotonia 76 2.93 (2.33–3.67) 2.93 (95.47) 95.47 1.54 (1.17) 2.91 (2.32)
Eye disorders Eyelid sensory disorder 73 218.17 (162.01–293.78) 218.07 (9376.29) 9376.29 7.02 (5.17) 130.03 (96.56)
General disorders and administration site conditions Sensation of foreign body 73 3.57 (2.83–4.5) 3.57 (133.47) 133.47 1.82 (1.44) 3.54 (2.81)
Eye disorders Eye movement disorder 73 3.66 (2.9–4.61) 3.66 (139.36) 139.36 1.86 (1.47) 3.63 (2.88)
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Aspiration 71 2.62 (2.07–3.3) 2.62 (70.28) 70.28 1.38 (1.01) 2.6 (2.06)
Eye disorders Abnormal sensation in eye 71 6.28 (4.97–7.95) 6.28 (309.21) 309.21 2.63 (2.18) 6.18 (4.89)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Trismus 70 5.33 (4.21–6.75) 5.33 (242.2) 242.2 2.39 (1.97) 5.26 (4.15)
Product issues Product distribution issue 69 5.27 (4.15–6.69) 5.27 (234.78) 234.78 2.38 (1.95) 5.2 (4.1)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site hypoaesthesia 68 21.28 (16.64–27.2) 21.27 (1231.45) 1231.45 4.32 (3.61) 20 (15.65)
Social circumstances Patient dissatisfaction with treatment 68 23.41 (18.3–29.94) 23.4 (1358.43) 1358.43 4.45 (3.71) 21.87 (17.09)
Nervous system disorders Facial spasm 67 24.32 (18.97–31.18) 24.31 (1391.58) 1391.58 4.5 (3.74) 22.66 (17.68)
Eye disorders Strabismus 67 9.54 (7.48–12.16) 9.53 (497.06) 497.06 3.22 (2.69) 9.29 (7.28)
Gastrointestinal disorders Lip disorder 66 13.44 (10.51–17.2) 13.44 (729.11) 729.11 3.69 (3.1) 12.93 (10.11)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Eye contusion 63 10.89 (8.47–14.01) 10.89 (547.27) 547.27 3.4 (2.83) 10.56 (8.22)
Nervous system disorders Myasthenia gravis 61 4.25 (3.3–5.47) 4.25 (149.5) 149.5 2.07 (1.63) 4.21 (3.27)
Nervous system disorders Muscle contractions involuntary 58 6.26 (4.82–8.11) 6.25 (251.14) 251.14 2.62 (2.12) 6.15 (4.75)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Posture abnormal 58 6.85 (5.28–8.89) 6.85 (283.75) 283.75 2.75 (2.24) 6.73 (5.19)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site paraesthesia 55 15.81 (12.06–20.73) 15.81 (727.04) 727.04 3.92 (3.2) 15.11 (11.53)
Investigations General physical condition abnormal 53 3.02 (2.31–3.96) 3.02 (71.06) 71.06 1.59 (1.14) 3 (2.29)
Ear and labyrinth disorders Hyperacusis 52 5.4 (4.1–7.1) 5.4 (183.17) 183.17 2.41 (1.9) 5.32 (4.05)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders Skin mass 51 2.78 (2.11–3.66) 2.78 (57.42) 57.42 1.46 (1.01) 2.76 (2.09)
General disorders and administration site conditions Facial discomfort 49 48.06 (35.59–64.89) 48.04 (1962.2) 1962.2 5.39 (4.09) 41.9 (31.03)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Torticollis 49 9.44 (7.11–12.55) 9.44 (359.18) 359.18 3.2 (2.57) 9.2 (6.92)
Nervous system disorders Bell's palsy 45 15.5 (11.49–20.91) 15.5 (582.16) 582.16 3.89 (3.07) 14.83 (10.99)
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Paranasal sinus discomfort 45 4.95 (3.69–6.64) 4.95 (139.6) 139.6 2.29 (1.74) 4.89 (3.64)
Eye disorders Erythema of eyelid 44 3.3 (2.45–4.44) 3.3 (69.66) 69.66 1.71 (1.21) 3.27 (2.43)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site hypersensitivity 44 6.82 (5.06–9.19) 6.82 (213.86) 213.86 2.74 (2.14) 6.7 (4.97)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site vesicles 43 2.9 (2.14–3.91) 2.9 (52.88) 52.88 1.53 (1.03) 2.88 (2.13)
Product issues Product temperature excursion issue 43 8.46 (6.25–11.45) 8.46 (275.49) 275.49 3.05 (2.39) 8.27 (6.11)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders Skin indentation 42 42.49 (30.8–58.63) 42.48 (1501.68) 1501.68 5.23 (3.88) 37.62 (27.26)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site indentation 42 9.86 (7.25–13.4) 9.86 (324.24) 324.24 3.26 (2.55) 9.59 (7.06)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site papule 39 3.24 (2.36–4.44) 3.24 (59.63) 59.63 1.68 (1.15) 3.21 (2.34)
Nervous system disorders Guillain‐barre syndrome 39 3.39 (2.47–4.65) 3.39 (65) 65 1.75 (1.21) 3.36 (2.45)
Eye disorders Lid sulcus deepened 39 40.22 (28.83–56.12) 40.21 (1324.59) 1324.59 5.16 (3.78) 35.83 (25.68)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Occupational exposure to product 38 3.02 (2.19–4.16) 3.02 (50.89) 50.89 1.59 (1.05) 3 (2.18)
Eye disorders Eyelid function disorder 37 18.66 (13.39–25.99) 18.65 (584.09) 584.09 4.14 (3.14) 17.68 (12.69)
Product issues Suspected product quality issue 36 11.52 (8.26–16.07) 11.52 (333.76) 333.76 3.48 (2.65) 11.15 (8)
Nervous system disorders Vocal cord paralysis 36 7.81 (5.61–10.87) 7.81 (208.56) 208.56 2.93 (2.22) 7.64 (5.49)
Nervous system disorders Monoplegia 35 3.06 (2.19–4.26) 3.05 (47.92) 47.92 1.6 (1.04) 3.04 (2.18)
Infections and infestations Injection site infection 35 4.11 (2.94–5.74) 4.11 (81.27) 81.27 2.02 (1.42) 4.07 (2.92)
Eye disorders Eyelid pain 35 8.1 (5.79–11.32) 8.09 (212.27) 212.27 2.99 (2.24) 7.92 (5.66)
Renal and urinary disorders Bladder pain 31 3.83 (2.69–5.46) 3.83 (64.15) 64.15 1.93 (1.29) 3.8 (2.67)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Mephisto sign 31 3303.51 (1009.93–10 805.92) 3302.85 (9028.81) 9028.81 8.19 (4.14) 292.34 (89.37)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Temporomandibular pain and dysfunction syndrome 30 3.68 (2.57–5.27) 3.68 (57.88) 57.88 1.87 (1.23) 3.65 (2.55)
Eye disorders Dark circles under eyes 29 7.61 (5.26–10.99) 7.6 (162.47) 162.47 2.9 (2.08) 7.45 (5.16)
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Pharyngeal hypoaesthesia 28 11.87 (8.14–17.31) 11.87 (268.73) 268.73 3.52 (2.53) 11.48 (7.87)
Product issues Suspected counterfeit product 28 3.33 (2.29–4.83) 3.33 (45.14) 45.14 1.72 (1.07) 3.3 (2.28)
Eye disorders Eyelids pruritus 28 3.75 (2.59–5.45) 3.75 (55.92) 55.92 1.9 (1.23) 3.72 (2.56)
Eye disorders Hypoaesthesia eye 27 19.84 (13.45–29.27) 19.84 (454.79) 454.79 4.23 (2.96) 18.74 (12.7)
Renal and urinary disorders Bladder spasm 27 5.84 (3.99–8.55) 5.84 (106.44) 106.44 2.53 (1.75) 5.76 (3.93)
Eye disorders Eye oedema 26 4.14 (2.81–6.1) 4.14 (61.15) 61.15 2.04 (1.32) 4.1 (2.78)
Nervous system disorders Reduced facial expression 25 7.05 (4.75–10.48) 7.05 (127.06) 127.06 2.79 (1.92) 6.92 (4.66)
Investigations Residual urine volume increased 23 100.72 (63.03–160.94) 100.71 (1726.5) 1726.5 6.26 (3.55) 76.82 (48.07)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Muscle hypertrophy 23 28.72 (18.75–44.01) 28.72 (564.57) 564.57 4.72 (3.07) 26.43 (17.25)
General disorders and administration site conditions Therapeutic response delayed 23 3.39 (2.25–5.12) 3.39 (38.43) 38.43 1.75 (1.02) 3.37 (2.23)
Nervous system disorders Paresis 23 3.8 (2.52–5.74) 3.8 (46.96) 46.96 1.91 (1.16) 3.77 (2.5)
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Nasal oedema 23 5.34 (3.53–8.06) 5.33 (79.69) 79.69 2.4 (1.57) 5.26 (3.49)
Nervous system disorders Tongue paralysis 22 12.1 (7.91–18.53) 12.1 (215.91) 215.91 3.55 (2.38) 11.7 (7.64)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site atrophy 22 5.03 (3.3–7.67) 5.03 (70.01) 70.01 2.31 (1.48) 4.97 (3.26)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders Cutis laxa 21 28.57 (18.28–44.64) 28.56 (512.74) 512.74 4.72 (2.97) 26.3 (16.83)
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Sinus pain 21 3.88 (2.53–5.97) 3.88 (44.44) 44.44 1.94 (1.15) 3.85 (2.5)
Eye disorders Dermatochalasis 21 63.93 (40.02–102.15) 63.93 (1083.98) 1083.98 5.74 (3.31) 53.44 (33.45)
Product issues Product reconstitution quality issue 20 11.18 (7.16–17.46) 11.18 (179.05) 179.05 3.44 (2.24) 10.83 (6.94)
Nervous system disorders Electric shock sensation 20 4.05 (2.61–6.3) 4.05 (45.43) 45.43 2.01 (1.18) 4.02 (2.58)
Product issues Manufacturing product shipping issue 19 15.03 (9.49–23.82) 15.03 (237.7) 237.7 3.85 (2.45) 14.4 (9.09)
Surgical and medical procedures Face lift 19 195.93 (110.68–346.83) 195.9 (2284.24) 2284.24 6.93 (3.35) 121.84 (68.83)
General disorders and administration site conditions Induration 19 4.06 (2.58–6.38) 4.06 (43.26) 43.26 2.01 (1.15) 4.02 (2.56)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site scab 19 8 (5.08–12.62) 8 (113.56) 113.56 2.97 (1.89) 7.83 (4.97)
Gastrointestinal disorders Tongue movement disturbance 18 8.51 (5.33–13.59) 8.51 (116.22) 116.22 3.06 (1.91) 8.32 (5.21)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site anesthesia 17 19.91 (12.2–32.49) 19.9 (287.33) 287.33 4.23 (2.54) 18.8 (11.51)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site granuloma 17 33.96 (20.6–56) 33.96 (491.6) 491.6 4.94 (2.82) 30.8 (18.68)
Nervous system disorders Head titubation 17 4.78 (2.96–7.72) 4.78 (50.05) 50.05 2.24 (1.28) 4.72 (2.93)
Nervous system disorders Occipital neuralgia 16 12.09 (7.34–19.92) 12.09 (156.83) 156.83 3.55 (2.13) 11.69 (7.09)
Nervous system disorders Dropped head syndrome 16 18.73 (11.32–31.02) 18.73 (253.71) 253.71 4.15 (2.44) 17.75 (10.72)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Iatrogenic injury 16 4.54 (2.77–7.44) 4.54 (43.57) 43.57 2.17 (1.19) 4.49 (2.74)
Eye disorders Lacrimation decreased 15 12.33 (7.36–20.65) 12.33 (150.3) 150.3 3.57 (2.09) 11.9 (7.11)
Nervous system disorders Facial nerve disorder 14 12.26 (7.19–20.91) 12.26 (139.43) 139.43 3.57 (2.02) 11.84 (6.94)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site pallor 14 20.81 (12.12–35.74) 20.81 (247.91) 247.91 4.29 (2.36) 19.6 (11.42)
Metabolism and nutrition disorders Marasmus 14 4.32 (2.55–7.32) 4.32 (35.24) 35.24 2.1 (1.06) 4.28 (2.52)
Nervous system disorders Myasthenic syndrome 14 7.89 (4.64–13.41) 7.89 (82.23) 82.23 2.95 (1.66) 7.73 (4.55)
Infections and infestations Mediastinitis 14 9.79 (5.75–16.67) 9.79 (107.23) 107.23 3.25 (1.84) 9.53 (5.6)
General disorders and administration site conditions Therapeutic product ineffective for unapproved indication 13 13.54 (7.77–23.58) 13.53 (144.78) 144.78 3.7 (2.02) 13.03 (7.48)
Eye disorders Periorbital pain 13 7.87 (4.54–13.64) 7.87 (76.09) 76.09 2.95 (1.6) 7.7 (4.44)
Gastrointestinal disorders Palatal disorder 13 8.08 (4.66–14.02) 8.08 (78.71) 78.71 2.98 (1.62) 7.91 (4.56)
Investigations Corneal reflex decreased 12 12.18 (6.84–21.67) 12.18 (118.59) 118.59 3.56 (1.87) 11.77 (6.61)
Eye disorders Eyelid thickening 12 15.22 (8.53–27.16) 15.22 (152.19) 152.19 3.87 (2.01) 14.57 (8.17)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site cyst 12 16.53 (9.25–29.54) 16.53 (166.51) 166.51 3.98 (2.06) 15.77 (8.83)
Eye disorders Scleral hyperaemia 12 5.96 (3.36–10.54) 5.96 (48.58) 48.58 2.55 (1.28) 5.87 (3.31)
Eye disorders Accommodation disorder 12 6.23 (3.52–11.03) 6.23 (51.64) 51.64 2.62 (1.33) 6.13 (3.46)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders Skin laxity 11 16.59 (9.05–30.41) 16.58 (153.15) 153.15 3.98 (1.97) 15.82 (8.63)
Eye disorders Lacrimal disorder 11 7.34 (4.04–13.35) 7.34 (58.89) 58.89 2.85 (1.4) 7.2 (3.96)
Eye disorders Amblyopia 11 7.36 (4.05–13.37) 7.36 (59.05) 59.05 2.85 (1.4) 7.21 (3.97)
Eye disorders Blepharochalasis 11 92.53 (47.3–181.02) 92.52 (772.32) 772.32 6.17 (2.45) 71.98 (36.79)
Infections and infestations Injection site pustule 10 10.69 (5.69–20.07) 10.69 (84.99) 84.99 3.38 (1.6) 10.38 (5.53)
Eye disorders Extraocular muscle disorder 10 12.15 (6.46–22.85) 12.15 (98.61) 98.61 3.55 (1.68) 11.74 (6.25)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Head deformity 10 12.89 (6.85–24.25) 12.89 (105.41) 105.41 3.64 (1.72) 12.43 (6.6)
Nervous system disorders Hemiplegic migraine 10 14.53 (7.71–27.38) 14.53 (120.5) 120.5 3.8 (1.79) 13.94 (7.4)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications VIIth nerve injury 10 63.93 (32.42–126.06) 63.93 (516.18) 516.18 5.74 (2.26) 53.44 (27.1)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Transcription medication error 10 8.43 (4.5–15.8) 8.43 (63.84) 63.84 3.04 (1.43) 8.24 (4.4)
Investigations Central nervous system function test abnormal 9 119.87 (55.72–257.88) 119.86 (771.51) 771.51 6.45 (2.14) 87.44 (40.65)
Eye disorders Binocular eye movement disorder 9 13.51 (6.93–26.32) 13.51 (99.99) 99.99 3.7 (1.63) 13 (6.67)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Product administered by wrong person 9 14.03 (7.2–27.36) 14.03 (104.35) 104.35 3.75 (1.65) 13.48 (6.92)
Blood and lymphatic system disorders Lymphatic disorder 9 7.12 (3.68–13.79) 7.12 (46.32) 46.32 2.8 (1.2) 6.99 (3.61)
Nervous system disorders Ophthalmic migraine 9 8.17 (4.22–15.84) 8.17 (55.24) 55.24 3 (1.31) 7.99 (4.12)
General disorders and administration site conditions Premature aging 8 10.79 (5.33–21.83) 10.79 (68.74) 68.74 3.39 (1.37) 10.47 (5.18)
Nervous system disorders Spasmodic dysphonia 8 10.84 (5.36–21.92) 10.83 (69.08) 69.08 3.39 (1.37) 10.51 (5.2)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site alopecia 8 106.55 (47.87–237.17) 106.54 (627.32) 627.32 6.32 (1.94) 80.16 (36.01)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Product administered from unauthorized provider 8 106.55 (47.87–237.17) 106.54 (627.32) 627.32 6.32 (1.94) 80.16 (36.01)
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders Facial wasting 8 12.85 (6.34–26.05) 12.85 (84.04) 84.04 3.63 (1.47) 12.39 (6.11)
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders Neuropathic muscular atrophy 8 20.3 (9.93–41.47) 20.29 (137.99) 137.99 4.26 (1.67) 19.14 (9.37)
Nervous system disorders Autonomic dysreflexia 8 21.86 (10.68–44.74) 21.86 (149.02) 149.02 4.36 (1.7) 20.52 (10.03)
Investigations Neutralizing antibodies 8 29.06 (14.09–59.93) 29.06 (198.67) 198.67 4.74 (1.78) 26.72 (12.96)
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Intranasal hypoaesthesia 8 32.37 (15.64–66.98) 32.37 (220.83) 220.83 4.88 (1.81) 29.48 (14.25)
Gastrointestinal disorders Salivary gland disorder 8 6.38 (3.17–12.84) 6.38 (35.56) 35.56 2.65 (1.01) 6.27 (3.11)
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Oropharyngeal spasm 8 7.31 (3.63–14.73) 7.31 (42.57) 42.57 2.84 (1.11) 7.16 (3.55)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Eyelid contusion 8 71.03 (33.02–152.82) 71.03 (451.92) 451.92 5.87 (1.93) 58.3 (27.1)
General disorders and administration site conditions Application site acne 8 8.09 (4.01–16.32) 8.09 (48.5) 48.5 2.98 (1.19) 7.92 (3.92)
Nervous system disorders Vocal cord paresis 7 11.97 (5.63–25.45) 11.96 (67.8) 67.8 3.53 (1.27) 11.57 (5.44)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site muscle weakness 7 117.76 (49.5–280.14) 117.76 (592.19) 592.19 6.43 (1.72) 86.32 (36.29)
Nervous system disorders Trigeminal nerve disorder 7 7.64 (3.61–16.16) 7.64 (39.43) 39.43 2.9 (1.01) 7.48 (3.54)
Nervous system disorders Bulbar palsy 6 10.31 (4.57–23.25) 10.31 (48.87) 48.87 3.32 (1.02) 10.02 (4.44)
Injury, poisoning and procedural complications Oral contusion 6 11.35 (5.03–25.62) 11.35 (54.67) 54.67 3.46 (1.06) 10.99 (4.87)
Nervous system disorders Neuralgic amyotrophy 6 11.35 (5.03–25.62) 11.35 (54.67) 54.67 3.46 (1.06) 10.99 (4.87)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site muscle atrophy 6 112.82 (44.48–286.14) 112.81 (491.46) 491.46 6.39 (1.46) 83.64 (32.98)
Product issues Product quality control issue 6 12.7 (5.62–28.72) 12.7 (62.2) 62.2 3.62 (1.11) 12.25 (5.42)
Reproductive system and breast disorders Pelvic floor muscle weakness 6 14.75 (6.51–33.44) 14.75 (73.53) 73.53 3.82 (1.18) 14.15 (6.24)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site movement impairment 6 19.57 (8.58–44.63) 19.57 (99.62) 99.62 4.21 (1.27) 18.5 (8.11)
Nervous system disorders Radiculitis brachial 6 20.4 (8.94–46.57) 20.4 (104.06) 104.06 4.27 (1.28) 19.24 (8.43)
General disorders and administration site conditions Injection site deformation 6 30.93 (13.38–71.51) 30.93 (158.45) 158.45 4.82 (1.38) 28.29 (12.24)
Psychiatric disorders Compulsive lip biting 5 19.73 (8–48.69) 19.73 (83.74) 83.74 4.22 (1.02) 18.64 (7.55)
Nervous system disorders Cervicogenic headache 5 19.98 (8.09–49.31) 19.98 (84.83) 84.83 4.24 (1.02) 18.86 (7.64)
Eye disorders Swollen tear duct 5 20.49 (8.3–50.61) 20.49 (87.11) 87.11 4.27 (1.03) 19.32 (7.82)
Eye disorders Lid lag 5 38.05 (15.05–96.18) 38.05 (161.2) 161.2 5.09 (1.13) 34.11 (13.5)

Note: An overview of adverse events (AEs) demonstrating strong disproportionality signals across 14 SOCs and their corresponding 156 Preferred Terms (PTs), as identified through established signal detection criteria. 1. Drug ineffectiveness (n = 22 262) and off‐label use (n = 11 441) were the most commonly reported PTs with the frequency of reports. 2. In the reporting odds ratio (ROR) analysis, eyebrow ptosis demonstrated the highest association (ROR = 10 060.91), trailed by facial paresis (ROR = 3303.51) and botulism (ROR = 1215.27). Additionally, neuromuscular toxicity (ROR = 533.20) and reuse of single‐use products (ROR = 258.89) showed notably elevated ROR values. 3. The χ 2 analysis revealed that blepharoptosis had the strongest statistical relationship (χ 2 = 391 328.68), followed by product preparation errors (χ 2 = 231 995.87) and reuse of single‐use products (χ 2 = 204 739.75) as the next most prominent associations. 4. Bayesian analyses provided corroborative evidence for the ROR findings, demonstrating that eyebrow ptosis (EBGM = 310.73) and botulism (EBGM = 253.76) maintained consistently elevated values across both statistical approaches.

In ROR analysis, eyebrow ptosis (SOC: skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders; n = 502; ROR = 10 060.91) exhibited the strongest association, followed by facial paresis (SOC: injury, poisoning, and procedural complications; n = 31; ROR = 3303.51) and botulism (SOC: infections and infestations; n = 296; ROR = 1215.27). In addition, neuromuscular toxicity (SOC: nervous system disorders; n = 140; ROR = 533.20) and reuse of single‐use product (SOC: injury, poisoning, and procedural complications; n = 1450; ROR = 258.89) produced high ROR values.

According to χ 2 values, blepharoptosis (n = 3140; χ 2 = 391 328.68) had the strongest statistical association, followed by product preparation error (n = 3174; χ 2 = 231 995.87) and reuse of single‐use product (n = 1450; χ 2 = 204 739.75). Bayesian approaches corroborated the findings of the ROR analysis: eyebrow ptosis (IC = 8.28; EBGM = 310.73) and botulism (IC = 7.99; EBGM = 253.76) exhibited consistently high values across both metrics.

4. Discussion

The analysis of 155 449 pharmacovigilance reports from the FAERS shows that BoNT‐A‐related ADRs were reported across 27 SOCs. The highest reporting frequencies were observed in general disorders and administration‐site conditions; injury, poisoning, and procedural complications; and nervous system disorders. Reports were also frequent under eye disorders and musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders, indicating that BoNT‐A effects extend beyond the local injection site.

According to the recent ISAPS Global Survey from 2010 to 2023, BoNT‐A injection remains one of the most frequently performed nonsurgical cosmetic procedures [17]. Among the 60 622 unique case reports analyzed, 87.8% of events were reported in females—mirroring the predominance of women among recipients of BoNT‐A‐based aesthetic treatments. Among males, the incidence of BoNT‐A AEs accounted for 12.2% of the total population, which may be attributed to the smaller number of male patients receiving BoNT‐A therapy and variations in the application scope and dosage of BoNT‐A.

Studies indicate that the proportion of males undergoing cosmetic procedures has remained around 14% in recent years [17]. Male aesthetic preferences undoubtedly represent an increasingly prominent trend; however, achieving comparable rates and numbers to those observed in females will be a key direction for future development. Male and female individuals exhibit distinct physiological differences, such as greater skeletal muscle mass, higher facial vascular density, and more pronounced facial wrinkles. These anatomical variations directly influence the required dosage and efficacy of BoNT‐A injections. Literature reports that males require higher doses of BoNT‐A for cosmetic applications compared to females, and even with increased doses, their response rates remain lower than those of females [18]. Besides, studies have demonstrated that the effective dosage and duration of BoNT‐A treatment for adductor laryngeal dystonia remain consistent regardless of age or gender [19]. This further highlights the expanding applications of BoNT‐A beyond medical aesthetics into therapeutic areas, including the treatment of blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm, cervical dystonia, hyperhidrosis, and facial wrinkles [2, 3]—a potential explanation for the observed gender‐specific variations in AEs. The peak age distribution of ADRs (18–64.9 years; 37.9%) is consistent with the typical demographic seeking aesthetic BoNT‐A treatment [20]. Together, these demographic findings reinforce the need for careful safety monitoring among aesthetic BoNT‐A recipients.

The upward trend in annual ADR reports from 2004 to 2025 parallels the documented increase in global BoNT‐A use [21]. Although 45.8% of these reports originated from healthcare professionals, consumer‐initiated reports accounted for a substantial proportion (32.5%). Although most events were classified as nonserious (86.4%) and nonfatal (98.0%), the occurrence of serious outcomes such as hospitalization (4.0%) and death (2.0%) underscores the importance of prompt recognition and management of BoNT‐A‐related complications by all practitioners.

Our analysis revealed a biphasic temporal pattern of ADR onset: an initial peak within the first 30 post‐injection days and a smaller second peak after the 360‐day mark. The early peak is consistent with the established pharmacodynamics of BoNT‐A—clinical effects typically emerge within 24 h to 2 weeks of injection and persist for 3–6 months [21, 22]. The early‐onset pattern is further corroborated by preclinical studies, which indicate that most BoNT‐A formulations retain ≥ 90% potency for at least 12 weeks following injection. BoNT‐A undergoes rapid initial distribution (half‐life measured in minutes) followed by slower elimination (half‐life measured in hours), both of which are dose‐independent [23]. These kinetic phases likely contribute to the prolonged neuromuscular effects observed clinically and may help further explain the early onset of ADRs.

On the other hand, the delayed peak might stem from the cumulative neurophysiological alterations caused by repeated injections, complications that arise later due to the spread of the toxin, or the development of neutralizing antibodies leading to secondary treatment failure (described as the medication being ineffective). The extended duration of certain PTs—most notably dysphagia (7702 days), facial paralysis (6360 days), and neck pain (5928 days)—may be consistent with the mechanism of action of BoNT‐A, which involves sustained inhibition of acetylcholine release at presynaptic terminals, leading to prolonged neuromuscular blockade [2, 24]. Clinicians should therefore monitor patients for both early‐ and late‐onset ADRs following BoNT‐A administration.

Using four pharmacovigilance algorithms (PRR, EBGM, BCPNN, and ROR), we identified several strong safety signals, including eyebrow ptosis, botulism, blepharoptosis, facial paresis, and reuse of single‐use product. Eyebrow ptosis and blepharoptosis are known complications arising from unintended chemodenervation of the levator palpebrae superioris or brow elevator muscles following local toxin diffusion [25]. Anatomically, eyebrow ptosis arises from an imbalance between the frontalis (brow elevator) and the depressors of the glabellar complex (procerus, corrugator supercilii, and orbicularis oculi). In patients treated for horizontal forehead rhytides, concurrent treatment of the glabella is essential; otherwise, unopposed depressor activity may precipitate brow descent. Maintaining injection points at least 2–3 cm above the supraorbital rim or 1.5–2 cm above the brow, along with precise dose and dilution control, can reduce the risk of eyebrow ptosis. Blepharoptosis typically occurs when toxin injected near the midpupillary line at the superior orbital rim migrates through the orbital septum and weakens the levator palpebrae superioris [26, 27]. Dermatochalasis in older individuals also contributes to this complication, as these patients unconsciously recruit the frontalis to elevate the brow and eyelids; BoNT‐A injection may weaken this compensatory mechanism, thus unmasking or exacerbating ptosis. Although these effects may persist for weeks, they are generally self‐limited and can be partially managed with topical α‐adrenergic agonists (e.g., apraclonidine, naphazoline, and phenylephrine) until toxin‐induced paralysis resolves [22, 26].

Since 1987, BoNT‐A has been used therapeutically to improve facial symmetry in patients with facial palsy [28] and to reduce hyperkinetic facial movements [29]. However, several case reports record the occurrence of unintended muscle weakness following aesthetic BoNT‐A injection [30, 31]. Such events are generally attributed to excessive dosing or diffusion of toxin into adjacent, nontarget muscles [32]. The results of our analysis are consistent with these findings: facial paresis emerged as a strong safety signal. At present, a clearing threshold separating therapeutic effect from local toxicity is lacking; risk mitigation therefore depends on injector experience and precise technique.

Other safety signals—reuse of single‐use product and product preparation error—are directly associated with injector practice and product handling, underscoring the importance of procedural accuracy in BoNT‐A treatments. Improving injection proficiency, adhering to aseptic nontouch technique, and selecting high‐quality products are key to reducing procedural risk.

Otherwises, experimental evidence indicates that BoNT‐A undergoes retrograde axonal transport to brainstem nuclei in murine models, where it retains catalytic activity, is released within the facial nucleus, and preferentially targets central cholinergic synapses [33]. This trans‐synaptic action may modulate spinal and cortical circuitry [34]. Although the clinical significance of central transport in humans remains debated, central nervous system symptoms—including headache, dizziness, cognitive changes, and, rarely, encephalopathy or coma (typically in the context of systemic toxicity)—have been reported following BoNT‐A exposure. Botulism, the most severe manifestation of systemic toxicity, often presents initially with intense headache and fatigue, progressing to descending flaccid paralysis [35].

Beyond central effects, peripheral neuromuscular manifestations—including muscle weakness and sensory disturbances—have been frequently reported following BoNT‐A exposure. BoNT‐A inhibits acetylcholine release at the presynaptic membrane, resulting in dose‐dependent muscle denervation and weakness. While effects are most pronounced near the injection site, hematogenous dissemination may affect noninjected muscles, leading to generalized weakness, dyspnea, and even coma [35]. Our findings of prolonged dysphagia, facial paralysis, and neck pain are consistent with these reported effects.

The widespread distribution of cholinergic neuromuscular junctions renders multiple organ systems, including ocular tissues, susceptible to BoNT‐A effects. The effects on ocular tissues have been attributed to the action of BoNT‐A on autonomic pathways regulating ocular function. BoNT‐A inhibits acetylcholine release from preganglionic and postganglionic parasympathetic terminals and sympathetic ganglia, and systemic intoxication can lead to fixed, mid‐dilated pupils. Mydriasis may further result from BoNT‐A uptake by parasympathetic neurons at the ciliary ganglion or the neuromuscular junction of the iris sphincter [36, 37]. Pupillary changes may therefore serve as an early clinical sign of systemic toxicity. Notably, ocular ADRs were among the most frequently reported SOCs in our analysis. One of the main contributors to these ocular complications may be injection technique: high‐volume injections near the lateral canthus or tarsal plate can impair lid closure and exacerbate dry eye by reducing tear production and increasing evaporation. Conversely, BoNT‐A injection into the medial eyelid can alleviate dry eye by impairing lacrimal drainage. While injections lateral to the brow, placed 1 cm above the orbital rim, have been shown to prevent unwanted orbicularis oculi paralysis, a total dosage exceeding 50 units per session may elevate complication risk [38, 39]. Periorbital injections have also been associated with acute angle‐closure glaucoma, retinal detachment, blurred vision, and corneal exposure [37].

At low doses, BoNT‐A effects remain largely confined to the target muscle; however, higher doses may increase the likelihood of diffusion to adjacent muscles, including across fascial planes [35]. Clinical reports have described unintended effects following injection at various sites, including laryngeal adverse effects after periocular injection for treatment of blepharospasm [40]. In the lower face and cervical region, BoNT‐A spread has been associated with functional impairments such as difficulty opening the mouth, dysphonia, dysphagia, or worsening dystonia [41, 42, 43] In addition, diffusion of BoNT‐A to the bladder neck can reduce smooth muscle contractility, potentially causing retrograde ejaculation and decreased ejaculate volume in male patients [44]. When injections are administered near vascular structures, systemic anticholinergic effects—culminating in iatrogenic botulism—may ensue.

Iatrogenic botulism is a rare but severe condition characterized by descending flaccid paralysis with potential progression to respiratory failure, bulbar palsy, autonomic dysfunction, and dysphagia [44, 45]. Botulism is among the most severe adverse effects of BoNT‐A injection, with patients often requiring hospitalization [46]. Management of this condition includes aggressive supportive care, early intubation and mechanical ventilation, and administration of equine‐derived botulinum antitoxin [47].

4.1. Limitations

This retrospective, database‐derived study has several limitations. First, the FAERS database is susceptible to reporting biases, including under‐reporting, stimulated reporting, and incomplete clinical information (e.g., missing data on injection dose, dilution, and technique). Second, disproportionality analysis identifies statistical associations, not causal relationships. Third, the generalizability of these findings may be constrained by the predominance of reports originating from the United States of America.

Standardized data collection protocols would help address these limitations in future prospective studies. Linkage of pharmacovigilance data with electronic health records could provide additional clinical context. Finally, multinational collaborative efforts would be valuable in validating these findings across diverse populations and healthcare settings.

5. Conclusion

This pharmacovigilance study, drawing on FAERS data from 2004 to 2025, delineates a comprehensive ADR profile for BoNT‐A. ADR onset followed a biphasic temporal pattern, initially peaking within 30 days after the injection and again beyond the 360‐day mark. Strong safety signals were detected for eyebrow ptosis, botulism, blepharoptosis, and facial paresis. Reuse of single‐use products was also identified as a safety signal. These findings suggest that factors such as injection technique, dose control, and knowledge of functional anatomy may influence the occurrence of ADRs. Accordingly, careful monitoring of patients during both early and late post‐treatment phases may be warranted to ensure timely identification and mitigation of ADRs. Continued postmarketing surveillance and targeted educational initiatives are needed for improving the safety profile of BoNT‐A formulations in both aesthetic and therapeutic applications.

Author Contributions

Jiaxu Gu wrote the first draft of the manuscript and prepared tables together with Yue Sun. Kexin Chen, Jieyi Wang, Bingcheng Lu, and Hongqiang Xie collected and reviewed published articles. Xiaoming Liu, Cong Huang, Xingling Jian, and Bo Yu supervised the study and provided funding support. All authors reviewed and approved the final manuscript. Jiaxu Gu and Yue Sun contributted equally to this manuscript.

Funding

This study was supported by Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation (2025A1515010947, 2024A1515220018), Shenzhen Sanming Project (No. SZSM202311029), Shenzhen Key Medical Discipline Construction Fund (SZXK040), Shenzhen High‐level Hospital Construction Fund, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital Scientific Research Fund (KYQD2024378, KYQD2021052), and National Natural Science Foundation of China (81803138).

Ethics Statement

Ethics approval was waived for this study because no patients' data were reported.

Consent

The authors have nothing to report.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Acknowledgments

The authors have nothing to report.

Contributor Information

Xingling Jian, Email: 329248192@qq.com.

Bo Yu, Email: drboyu_derm@126.com.

Data Availability Statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

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Associated Data

This section collects any data citations, data availability statements, or supplementary materials included in this article.

Data Availability Statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.


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